On the recordDecember 2, 2015
Some of my friends across the aisle's arguments are: Don't let the people know. Let's not be transparent. Let's have the EPA implement rules with no comment, no transparency, and no input from the American people. That is not what our Founders envisioned. They envisioned a form of government where it was transparent and we all had a say in the process. These aren't radical ideas. This is common sense. Listen, a quote: ``Regulations shall be adopted through a process that involves public participation.'' That wasn't from Ronald Reagan or George Bush. That was Barack Obama. ``Each agency, where feasible and appropriate, shall seek the views of those who are likely to be affected.'' Not Ronald Reagan, not George Bush, but Barack Obama. This stuff makes sense. Open the process up, let the American people see the impact and the rules that are being proposed, just like in every other government agency. The EPA shouldn't get special treatment. Transparency, good government, American involvement from the people in the process is what this amendment is about. I encourage all of my colleagues to support good government and a great amendment. I reserve the balance of my time.
